The Chicago Cubs’ already powerful bullpen is getting bolstered as the team’s hot streak continues. After sending Drew Smyly on waivers earlier this week, the team made a surprise addition via the waiver wire by claiming Shawn Armstrong from the St. Louis Cardinals.
Chicago will be Armstrong’s third stop of the 2024 season. The right-handed pitcher began the season with the Tampa Bay Rays before being traded to the Cardinals at the deadline. St. Louis paid a high price when it traded outfielder Dylan Carlson to Tampa Bay, but the Redbirds have chosen to cut bait after struggling in the standings throughout August.
While Armstrong’s 4.85 ERA does not look promising on paper, he has been reasonably consistent throughout his career. The Cubs are banking on him to keep up the momentum with an already outstanding bullpen.
Armstrong was outstanding in 2023, with a 1.38 ERA for the Rays on their way to the playoffs. While the Cubs have a decent history for discovering gems in the rough, it never hurts to add a dependable pitcher to the roster.
Poaching from a division opponent who appears to be withdrawing into the wilderness is also a benefit. If the Cardinals raise the white flag, the Cubs can gain by cleaning up the pieces of their demise.
The Cubs, who have been on a roll in recent weeks, are attempting to reverse last year’s late-season disaster. However, with five games separating them from the final National League wild-card berth, overcoming a mountain of a challenge will require a whole team effort.
Getting over.500 this week was a fantastic start. While the Cubs are not guaranteed to make the playoffs, they are gaining momentum as the season nears its end.
Are the Cubs just a reliever away from making the playoffs? Armstrong should boost their cause while undermining a division competitor who appears to be making rash decisions.
